Laying at the beach may be a fun way to spend the day, but extended exposures to the sun can bring with it some damaging effects. Long after a sunburn has disappeared, its lasting consequences may stick with you.
What is sun damage?
When your skin is exposed to the sun for too long, the ultraviolet rays may cause serious damage to your skin. The cells, collagen, and elastin under your skin’s surface may be harmed. This can result in a variety of skin problems and even dangerous conditions like skin cancer. Some of the lasting effects of sun damage are redness, wrinkles, age spots, freckles, or blotchy skin.
How can I prevent it?
There are some smart ways to help prevent sun damage from occurring in the first place. Sunscreen is the most effective solution if you plan on being in the sun. Use sunscreen with an SPF rating of at least 30 and reapply it every two hours. Try to avoid the sun during the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the ultraviolet rays are at their strongest. Also consider wearing protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses when you are outside.
Is it too late?
If you have already received sun damage, the reality is that the damage has been done and is often hard to reverse. There is hope though by properly caring for your skin and learning about ways to help it recover and become healthier. Consulting a qualified dermatologist like Dr. Bernard Raskin in Bakersfield is a great step in the path toward treating sun damage. Some ways to combat sun damage include:
- Retinoids and retinol: these products can improve the skin’s collagen production, reduce skin irregularities, and limit the effects of aging.
- Niacinamide: this form of vitamin B3 helps reduce redness and wrinkles, improve skin discoloration, and improve skin elasticity. Applying B3 in a moisturizer or serum can be a helpful part of your daily skincare routine.
- Dermabrasion: this procedure scrapes the top layer of damaged skin away to promote the growth of new, healthier skin underneath it. The results are typically long-lasting and impressive, creating smooth and healthy skin. It should be performed by an experienced professional to help avoid potential side effects such as scarring, skin damage, inflammation, or infection.
- Chemical peels: this involves applying chemical products to the skin with the goal of peeling off the outer layer, most damaged skin. This process can also reduce age spots, fine lines, and dark skin patches.
Each of these treatment methods for sun damage should be approved and monitored by our dermatologists to ensure your safety and overall health. Allergic reactions or other complications are sometimes possible.
Schedule an appointment today.
Sunscreen is a proven way to protect your skin from the sun’s damaging rays. When correctly used, it can lower your risk of skin cancer and help prevent premature skin aging caused by the sun. Sunscreen works by absorbing and reflecting the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
It doesn’t matter how old you are, sunscreen should be consistently used every day. Men, women, and children over six months old are good candidates for sunscreen. It also doesn’t matter if your skin type is naturally fair or dark, it can be damaged by a lifetime of sun exposure. One key is to find a product that you like and are willing to use that also fits the recommended guidelines for safe and effective sunscreen. Dr. Bernard Raskin in Bakersfield can suggest quality sunscreen products and guidelines to help protect you from the sun.
Sun Protection Factor (SPF)
One of the main elements of choosing a sunscreen is its SPF rating, which indicates how long the sunscreen will remain effective on the skin. Experts say that the higher the SPF rating, the more that it can protect your skin. Our dermatologists recommend an SPF rating of at least 30 or more. It is also important to use enough sunscreen so that your skin is adequately covered to provide protection. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours while out in the sun.
Broad spectrum
Broad spectrum sunscreen means that it protects your skin against ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. UVA rays are longer or weaker than UVB rays, which are medium or stronger rays. Sunscreens labeled to protect against both provide a good range of protection.
Water resistant
It is important to remember that sunscreen can wash off in water or with sweat. That’s why you may want to choose a product that is labeled Water-Resistant, which maintains the listed SPF rating for 40 minutes of activity. Sunscreens labeled Very Water-Resistant offer protection up to 80 minutes.
Allergic reactions
Some people develop rashes or other allergic reactions to sunscreen. If this occurs, try a different brand or type of sunscreen. Often the ingredient which people react to in sunscreen are PABA-based chemicals, so look for brands without PABA if needed. Also, sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide cause few allergic reactions. If you continue to have trouble finding a safe and effective type of sunscreen, consult our dermatologists for help.
Dermal fillers are a popular way to rejuvenate your appearance without taking the plunge into plastic surgery. These gel-like substances are injected into the skin to add volume to the face into problem areas like thin lips, facial creases or wrinkles, shallow contours, or recessed scars.
Why would I need dermal fillers?
Facial skin loses subcutaneous fat during the aging process, which often creates lines and wrinkles. This also happens through the normal use of facial muscles during your daily life. Sun exposure, lifestyle and genetics may also impact the appearance of your face as you age.
Are there different kinds?
There are various kinds of dermal fillers and they vary based on target areas, chemical makeup, and longevity of the filler. They are broken into categories by contents, density, texture, and injection depth. All dermal fillers are temporary and need to be repeated to achieve long-lasting benefits.
What are some popular types of dermal fillers?
One of the most popular varieties of dermal fillers is hyaluronic acid. This substance occurs naturally in your skin to create hydration and plumpness. These are the most temporary fillers with typical results from 6-12 months and are often recommended for first-time patients. Some common brands of these fillers are Restylane, Juvederm, Voluma, Belotero Balance, and more. A different type of popular filler is available in a brand called Radiesse. It contains calcium hydroxylapatite which is naturally found in your bones. Effective for about 12 months, these fillers contain calcium particles mixed with a smooth gel and the goal is to stimulate collagen production.
What is treatment like?
Non-surgical dermal filler injections are performed during an office visit with an experienced professional like Dr. Bernard Raskin in Bakersfield. After a consultation to discuss your goals and questions, the area will be cleaned and possibly given a topical anesthetic for numbing. Many dermal fillers also contain lidocaine to help alleviate discomfort during treatment. An accurate amount of filler will be injected under the skin in a precise area. Results may be visible immediately depending on the treatment location and you can resume normal activities other than strenuous exercise right away. Mild bruising or swelling sometimes occurs but subsides within days.
Are dermal fillers safe?
Make sure you are receiving FDA-approved fillers from a reputable licensed physician. Significant complications from these injections are rare but might include swelling, bruising, redness, numbness, over-filled appearance, lumps or sensitivity. Icing or massaging can relieve side effects. To maintain ideal results, repeat treatments are recommended along with adjustments to the amount of filler and techniques used.
Schedule an appointment today.
Acne can develop at practically any age and is the most common skin condition in the United States. The oily matter in your skin and hair called sebum, along with dead skin, can block pores and hair follicles and cause acne. Bacteria in the area can lead to inflammation, redness and infection. Whiteheads, pimples, blackheads, nodules and cysts are some of the telltale signs of acne.
Dr. Raskin in Bakersfield is an experienced dermatologist who offers effective treatments for the various ways in which acne develops. He and his team can help control acne, avoid skin damage, and make scars less visible over time. Combination treatments are often the way to go in attacking acne and giving you great results.
The first line of defense for most acne patients is over-the-counter treatments. These may be in the form of cleansers, towelettes, gels or lotions, sunscreen and more. If these are not effective, prescription medications may be the way to go. These limit oil production, reduce swelling, and treat infection. Results may take several weeks up to a few months, and it can even take years for acne to clear up completely. Age, gender, and acne severity all play a role in the type of treatment. As with any medical treatment, Dr. Raskin will discuss benefits and risks with you and help come up with the best plan.
Some of the most common prescription medications for acne include:
- Antibiotics in topical or oral options
- Retinoid gels, creams and lotions
- Salicylic acid in wash-off or leave-on products
- Oral contraceptives
Therapies are another treatment method for acne, either alone or combined with medication. Some of these are:
- Chemical peels
- Light therapy
- Steroid injection
- Drainage and extraction
- Microdermabrasion
Acne can be an embarrassing and frustrating condition at any age. Instead of suffering with the condition, get the help you need to eliminate acne as soon as possible.
Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.
Aging can bring about all sorts of impacts to your body and your skin is not exempt. That’s why you probably have heard about many adults turning to neurotoxins to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Examples of some FDA-approved neurotoxin products include Botox, Dysport, Jeauveau, and Xeomin. These quick treatments can improve the look of frown lines and wrinkles for up to four months.
Purpose
Facial lines can occur from natural changes in your skin, collagen reduction, and even the environment. Repeated muscle contractions from smiling, frowning, squinting, or raising eyebrows play a role in creating unwanted wrinkles and lines. Injecting neurotoxins into the target area temporarily reduces muscle activity and smoothes lines. This is especially popular between the eyebrows, on the forehead, around the mouth, and beside the eyes.
Candidates
Everyone’s facial lines develop differently and at different rates. Once the lines start to really bother you, it may be time to discuss your options with an experienced healthcare professional like Dr. Bernard Raskin in Bakersfield. It is not your age that determines when it might be time for neurotoxin treatment, but it is the severity of your lines. Both men and women are candidates for this type of cosmetic treatment. Since neurotoxins don’t work for all types of wrinkles, it is ideal to seek professional help to learn what your best options are.
Procedure
It is critical to obtain neurotoxin treatment from a licensed, trained medial expert using safe materials and techniques. This personalized method for improving your appearance focuses on your specific goals and condition. The injection itself takes only about ten minutes and often is described as feeling like a pinch to the skin. Your dermatologist may use ice or topical numbing cream to help deaden the treatment area. Remember that neurotoxins are not a permanent cure for facial lines and wrinkles and that the issues will likely gradually reappear over time if treatment is discontinued.
Side effects
A small percentage of neurotoxin patients may encounter side effects after the injection. These can include bruising, weakness, facial asymmetry, eyelid drooping, loss of muscle tone, double vision, headache, nausea, under or over correction, or paralysis of nearby muscles.
Results
One of the best things about neurotoxins is the minimal downtime associated with treatment. You can return to work or normal activities immediately. Results are usually noticeable within a couple of weeks and last up to four months. Dr. Bernard Raskin in Bakersfield will help you plan your next neurotoxin appointment based on your specific results and goals.
Skin tags are usually harmless skin growths that look like a small piece of skin hanging from the body. These common noncancerous growths contain collagen inside, a natural protein in your body that is linked to healthy skin. They are typically soft and develop in natural creases of the body like the neck, underarms, eyelids, or groin. Although they are not dangerous, some people choose to have them removed.
Causes
The most likely cause of skin tags is friction from movement or clothing that creates excess skin growths in that area. Although they can happen to anyone, some known increased risk factors are obesity, pregnancy, hormone imbalance, Type 2 diabetes, or human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Skin tags are more common in women than men. Those with family members with a history of skin tags also have a higher likelihood of developing them.
Evaluation
If skin tags are bothersome or if they change in appearance, seeing a qualified dermatologist like Dr. Bernard Raskin in Bakerfield is a good idea. This is especially true if your skin tag bleeds, causes pain, changes color, or increases in size. You might also want to seek skin tag removal if it is in a location that gets hung on jewelry or clothing or is embarrassing to you.
Removal
The ideal removal method depends on the size and location of the skin tag. Some common techniques include:
- Cutting: using a scalpel or sharp scissors to snip the skin tag off
- Freezing: applying liquid nitrogen to freeze the skin and destroy the skin tag
- Burning: using an electrocautery tool to burn off the tag to remove it and avoid damaging nearby skin
Do not try to remove skin tags on your own at home. Over the counter treatments are often not effective and some can be harmful to your skin. Cutting off a skin tag yourself may cause bleeding and liquid applications can burn your skin or cause scarring. Instead, seek professional care from a physician like Dr. Bernard Raskin for the best treatment for your skin tag.
Schedule an appointment today.
Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that causes redness, flushing, and bumps on the face. While there is no cure for rosacea, there are a number of treatment options available to help manage the condition and improve the health and appearance of the skin. In this article, we’ll explore the latest rosacea treatments and their effectiveness.
Topical medications are a common treatment option for rosacea. These medications are applied directly to the skin and may include:
- Antibiotics: Antibiotics can help to reduce inflammation and the proliferation of bacteria on the skin. Topical antibiotics, such as metronidazole and erythromycin, are often used to treat rosacea.
- Azelaic acid: Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring compound that has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It is available as a cream or gel and is often used to treat rosacea.
- Ivermectin: Ivermectin is a medication that has been shown to be effective in reducing the redness and bumps associated with rosacea. It is available as a cream or lotion.
Oral medications may also be used to treat rosacea. These medications are taken by mouth and may include:
- Antibiotics: Antibiotics can help to reduce inflammation and the proliferation of bacteria on the skin. Oral antibiotics, such as doxycycline and minocycline, are often used to treat rosacea.
- Isotretinoin: Isotretinoin is a medication that is usually used to treat acne, but it has also been shown to be effective in treating rosacea. It is a powerful medication that can have serious side effects, so it is usually reserved for severe cases of rosacea.
Laser treatments are another option for treating rosacea. These treatments use lasers or intense pulsed light (IPL) to reduce the appearance of redness and visible blood vessels on the skin. Laser treatments are typically well-tolerated and may be effective in improving the appearance of rosacea, but they may need to be repeated to maintain results.
There are a number of treatment options available for rosacea, including topical medications, oral medications, and laser treatments. The most appropriate treatment will depend on the severity of the condition and the individual’s specific needs and goals. It’s important to work with a dermatologist to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your needs and to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment over time.
Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, with more than 3.5 million cases diagnosed each year. It is also one of the most preventable types of cancer, as most skin cancers are caused by exposure to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
There are several risk factors that can increase a person’s likelihood of developing skin cancer. Some of the most common risk factors include:
- Fair skin: People with fair skin are more prone to sunburn and skin damage, which can increase their risk of skin cancer.
- Excessive sun exposure: Spending a lot of time in the sun, especially without protective clothing or sunscreen, can damage the skin and increase the risk of skin cancer.
- Sunburns: Severe sunburns, especially those experienced during childhood, can increase the risk of skin cancer.
- Family history: People with a family history of skin cancer are more likely to develop the disease themselves.
- Moles: People with a large number of moles, or moles that are larger than normal, may have an increased risk of skin cancer.
- Weakened immune system: People with a weakened immune system, such as those with HIV/AIDS or who are taking certain medications, may have a higher risk of skin cancer.
Given these risk factors, it’s important for everyone to protect their skin from the sun and to check their skin regularly for any unusual growths or changes. However, some people may be at higher risk of skin cancer and may benefit from seeing a dermatologist in Bakersfield like Dr. Raskin for regular screenings.
Those who may want to consider seeing a dermatologist for skin cancer screenings include:
- People with fair skin, red or blond hair, and blue or green eyes.
- People who have had severe sunburns in the past.
- People with a family history of skin cancer.
- People with a large number of moles or unusual moles.
- People with a weakened immune system.
Dermatologists are trained to recognize the early signs of skin cancer and can provide screenings to identify any potential problems. If caught early, skin cancer is often highly treatable, so it’s important to see a dermatologist for regular screenings if you are at high risk.
In addition to seeing Dr. Raskin, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of skin cancer. These include:
- Wear protective clothing and accessories, such as a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and long-sleeved shirts and pants, when you’re outside, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun’s rays are the strongest.
- Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 on all exposed skin every day, even on cloudy days. Be sure to apply enough sunscreen and reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating.
- Seek shade when the sun’s rays are the strongest, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Get vitamin D safely through a healthy diet that includes foods naturally rich in vitamin D, such as fatty fish and egg yolks, and/or by taking a daily supplement.
- Examine your skin regularly and check with a dermatologist if you notice any changes in the size, shape, or color of your moles or any other unusual growths on your skin.
By following these precautions and seeing a dermatologist for regular screenings, you can reduce your risk of skin cancer and catch any potential problems early on.
Schedule your skin cancer screening appointment today.
Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that causes redness, flushing, and bumps on the face. While there is no cure for rosacea, early treatment can help to manage the condition and prevent its progression. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of seeking early treatment for rosacea.
One of the main benefits of seeking early treatment for rosacea is the ability to prevent the condition from worsening. Without treatment, rosacea can progress through four stages, each with increasing severity of symptoms. By seeking treatment early, you can prevent the condition from progressing to the later stages and reduce the risk of complications.
Early treatment can also help to reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups. By working with Bakersfield dermatologist Dr. Raskin to develop a treatment plan that addresses your specific needs, you can take control of your rosacea and improve the health and appearance of your skin.
Another benefit of early treatment is the ability to address any emotional and social impacts of the condition. Rosacea can be a source of embarrassment and self-consciousness for those who have it, and seeking treatment early can help to alleviate these feelings. Early treatment can also help to prevent the development of low self-esteem and depression that can often accompany chronic skin conditions.
There are a number of treatment options available for rosacea, including topical medications, oral medications, and laser treatments. Dr. Raskin can help you determine the best treatment plan for your specific needs and goals.
In conclusion, seeking early treatment for rosacea can provide a number of benefits, including preventing the condition from worsening, reducing the frequency and severity of flare-ups, and addressing any emotional and social impacts of the condition. If you think you may have rosacea, it’s important to see a dermatologist as soon as possible to begin treatment and take control of your skin health.
If you’re suffering with rosacea contact our office today to schedule an appointment.
Eczema is an itchy rash that can be one of the most annoying and uncomfortable skin conditions there is. It can occur anywhere on the body and may start as a simple rash but can worsen into a very red and extremely irritated area when scratched.
There are several different types of eczema that an experienced physician like Dr. Raskin in Bakersfield can diagnose. Some common types are:
- Atopic dermatitis: occurs in infants and children but can linger through adulthood. The signs are severely itchy, scaly areas on the insides of the elbow, behind the knees, on the face, or anywhere else on the body.
- Contact dermatitis: occurs when the skin is exposed to an allergen, which may be simply something you are allergic to or something like poison ivy.
- Seborrheic dermatitis: chronic eczema affecting body parts with numerous oil glands, such as the scalp, eyebrows, nose and chest. The affected areas have a flaky white appearance.
- Hand eczema: red, itchy, dry, flaky, cracking, blistering hands or feet are all signs of hand eczema.
There are some general tips that can help eczema patients manage their symptoms. Avoid long hot showers that can remove moisture from the skin and apply lotion while the skin is still damp after bathing to seal in moisture. Choose breathable soft clothing and avoid itchy fabrics. Select creams or lotions specifically formulated for eczema symptoms that are gentle and fragrance-free. Popular products for relieving itching and skin irritation contain ingredients such as shea butter, colloidal oatmeal, and hyaluronic acid. Experts also recommend avoiding alcohol-based products and fragrances that may trigger eczema flareups.
Eczema treatments include corticosteroid ointments, antibiotics, oral corticosteroids, or injectable biologics. Therapies like wet dressings or light therapy may also be successful in treating eczema patients. Seeking professional help with Dr. Raskin is a great step in reaching your goal of controlling or even eliminating the irritating symptoms of eczema. Schedule an appointment today.
